The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist successfully conducted the 2026 Provincial Farm Family Forum for Rural-Based Organizations (RBOs) on July 30, 2026, at the Gov. Vicente T. Pimentel Multipurpose Hall, Capitol Hills, Tandag City, with the theme "Empowered RBOs for Inclusive and Sustainable Agriculture."

The forum celebrated the vital role of farm families and Rural-Based Organizations in advancing agricultural development by providing opportunities for learning, innovation, and collaboration. It brought together members of the Pambansang Mannalon, Mag-uuma, Magbabaul, Magsasaka ng Pilipinas (P4MP), Rural Improvement Clubs (RICs), 4-H Clubs, and agricultural cooperatives, giving them a platform to showcase innovations, exchange knowledge, strengthen partnerships, and recognize their valuable contributions to the province's agricultural development.

The activity was attended by Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Henrich M. Pimentel, Provincial Agriculturist Esmeraldo S. Raymundo, representatives from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), Department of Agriculture–Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (DA-AMAD), Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), Provincial Agriculture and Fishery Council (PAFC), RBO Coordinators, 4-H Club Coordinators and members, farmers from various municipalities and personnel of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg).

Participants demostrated their creativity and resourcefulness through various competitions, including the Agri-Innovation Challenge which featured innovative agricultural technologies, products, and farming practices that promote increased productivity and sustainable agriculture. The forum also recognized outstanding farm families through the Farm Family of the Year 2026, honoring their dedication and significant contributions to the province's agricultural sector. Meanwhile, the Youth/Young Farmers Quiz Bowl Challenge and the Young Farmers Business Pitch encouraged young farmers and 4-H members to enhance their agricultural knowledge, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills by presenting innovative agribusiness ideas and competing in agriculture-related challenges.

More than just a celebration, the forum served as a meaningful platform for farmers, rural women, and youth to exchange ideas, learn from one another, and strengthen partnerships with government agencies and agricultural stakeholders. It highlighted the significant role of Rural-Based Organizations as key partners in promoting innovation, ensuring food security, and advancing sustainable agricultural development throughout the province.

Through initiatives like the Provincial Farm Family Forum, the Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur, through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, continues to invest in programs that recognize the invaluable contributions of farm families and empower Rural-Based Organizations to become catalysts for inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agricultural development.